There are quite a few rules and regulations everyone learns while taking their boating safety course; however, there are unwritten rules that aren't taught but should be followed. Hopefully you follow these unwritten rules:
- Do not create a wake within 300 feet of a commercial dock - Wake is created around 5 MPH. Even if there are no signs, areas within 300 feet of a commercial boat dock are no wake areas. When someone is at their dock trying to balance themselves and their stuff and trying to get in or out of their boat, it's very inconvenient to be rocked by unnecessary wake. There are also a lot of people who swim off the dock so it's extremely dangerous for boats to be going fast enough to make a wake.
- Do not hold up everyone else at the boat launch - It is very inconvenient waiting for someone to load their boat with coolers, fishing gear, and equipment while they're parked on the launch. You should remove your boat cover, load your boat, remove all tie-downs, and make sure your drain plug is in before you are at the launch. Once your boat is launched, quickly move your vehicle out of the way so the next boater can enjoy their day not waiting in line.
- Do not leave hooks on the dock - While fishing from the dock or loading and unloading fishing gear from your boat, make sure your hooks are not laying exposed on the dock. A fishing hook can easily be stepped on by someone walking barefoot on the dock, or by a pet.
- Do not anchor too close to another boat - One of the most relaxing things to do on your boat is nothing at all. It's wonderful to go into a quiet cove, anchor your boat, and sunbathe, swim, or fish. Generally boaters who are anchored away from activity are looking for privacy. Allow enough room between your boat and another boat for both to swing around their anchors and have sufficient privacy.
Boating is a wonderful activity that should be enjoyed without inconveniencing anyone else. By following these unwritten rules, we can all enjoy the water together!
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